Benedict Fawver

Why did you choose this program (major)?

I chose Oregon Tech because I was drawn to the hands-on learning environment. I spent almost equal amounts of time in lecture and lab during the average week. I feel like this approach to learning provides many useful skills. Oregon Tech also has a great return on investment.

How are you planning to use your degree in the future?

I hope to contribute to finding new materials for electronics that are more efficient and allow for devices that are more powerful. I have always been fascinated by electronics, and I am very excited to finally start doing research in this field. I am starting my career as a Radiation Characterization Research Engineer with the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) in Albuquerque, NM this summer. I will be pursuing my Master’s and Ph.D. while working as a research engineer for the AFRL.

I was looking for a resource that would help me navigate the difficulties of college. I am the first person in my family to attend a four-year university as a full-time student. Since I was a first-generation student, I did not have much help in making it over common hurdles. TOP has helped me overcome many obstacles and provided support in stressful times.

Is there anything about Oregon Tech that you wish everyone knew about?

I think Oregon Tech is a bit of a hidden gem as far as Oregon colleges are concerned. OIT provides graduates with great hands-on education, which allows them to be more knowledgeable than many college graduates with similar degrees.

What is your favorite hobby, and do you have any experiences you would like to share regarding that hobby?

I am a big fan of mountain biking, and I enjoy riding as much as possible. I think Klamath Falls is a quickly growing biking community, which is awesome. There are many great trails in Moore Park and Spence Mountain, which provide amazing views and are a ton of fun.

What fuels you to succeed?

I have an insatiable curiosity and a desire to be successful. I always want to know how stuff works, and this pushes me to always be learning. I also want to be successful and lead a full and happy life.

Who is your favorite professor and why? Do you know any interesting facts about that particular professor?

Professor Eve Klopf is an incredible lab teacher who goes out of her way to help students solve problems. She is particularly passionate about wireless communications, which is showcased in her ARK radio club and the classes she teaches.